BOISE, Idaho — This story originally appeared in the Idaho Press.
Wednesday marks the 23-year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people on and after Sept. 11, 2001. To honor their memory, cities throughout the Treasure Valley are holding events that are open to the public.
BOISE
Boise Fire is holding a 9/11 remembrance and moment of silence at 7 a.m. at the Idaho Fallen Firefighter Memorial Park, located at 1791 W Shoreline Drive near the Boise River Greenbelt.
The city’s police and fire departments will also be at the annual Mission43 9/11 Miles of Remembrance 5K later that day at Ann Morrison Park. The family-friendly event is open to all members of the community and begins with an opening ceremony at 5 p.m. The 5K will take place along the Boise River and culminate with food, drinks and guest speakers.
Boise Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer and Police Chief Ron Winegar will be among those in attendance.
Parking is available at Ann Morrison Park but may fill up, so early arrival is encouraged.
Registration is available online at the Mission43 website, mission43.org.
MERIDIAN
Mayor Robert Simison, Police Chief Tracey Basterrechea, city council members and members of the Meridian Police Department will be on hand at Meridian’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony.
The public is invited to honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks; the ceremony will include Meridian’s Honor Guard and brief statements from dignitaries.
Honor Guard will begin the proceedings at 6:40 a.m. at the Meridian Police Department, located at 1401 E Watertower St.
“As our country came together on that day many years ago, we will come together again to continue and uphold our promise, that we will never forget,” Basterrechea said in a city of Meridian news release.
NAMPA
Nampa’s annual Patriot Day ceremony begins at 8 a.m. at Fire Station No. 1.
The event begins with invocation by Chaplain Andy Satta, an American flag will be presented by the Nampa Fire Honor Guard, and will include the Ringing of the Last Alarm, a tradition in fire departments when there’s been a death in the line of duty.
Satta will then give a closing prayer.
Fire Station No. 1 is located at the corner of 1st Street South and 10th Avenue South in Nampa. Those attending the 15-minute ceremony are encouraged to arrive early.
CALDWELL
Students from Elevate Academy and first responders from Caldwell will lead Wednesday’s 9/11 Memorial Event at Indian Creek Plaza.
The event, which begins at 9 a.m., will feature speeches and a moment of silence.
“The inclusion of students in leading the event represents the importance of teaching younger generations about the significance of 9/11, while the presence of first responders reflects the ongoing commitment and sacrifice of those who protect and serve our community,” Elevate Academy said in a news release.
This article originally appeared in the Idaho Press, read more on IdahoPress.com.
